Thamesbank Tipster

Thursday 8 November 2001

Sven Goran Eriksson's loyalty is unlikely to be brought into question at Old Trafford on Saturday. (Which national anthem will he sing though?!?). England have not beaten Sweden since 1968 and the last 8 games between the 2 nations have seen 5 draws and 3 wins for Sweden. Fulham Bet quote the draw at 13/5 with England 4/9 and Sweden 6/1.

The last friendly to be played by England resulted in a 2-0 defeat to Holland and won't be recalled with fondness by Eriksson - his flawless record since taking over as manager was brought to an abrupt and undignified end. Sweden are 33/1 to repeat that 2-0 scoreline with the Fulham Bet's special 'Disillusion' offering 5/2 that England fail to score.

Saturday's game offers Eriksson one of too few opportunities to hone his squad into a side capable of upsetting the best in world football. It is unfortunate therefore that the absence of players such as Henrik Larsson, Patrik Andersson and Freddie Ljunberg will lessen the challenge. However, Kevin Phillips is sure to grab any chance with both hands and the special 'Take A Chance On Me' offers 10/1 that the Sunderland man will come on as a substitute and score.

If you fancy Phillips to make an emphatic entrance, a £10 bet with Fulham Bet would win you £100!!